News
New Method of Freezing Soft Fruits Improves Product Quality and Shelf Life
Research and Innovation Centre Pro-Akademia, together with Bioberry Polska and the other partners of the SoundBerry project, has concluded a research and development project focusing on a new method of freezing soft fruits using acoustic waves. The project, "Innovative Solution for the Frozen Food Industry Using Acoustic Waves" (acronym: SoundBerry) offers an alternative to traditional IQF (Individual Quick Freezing) methods.
The aim of the SoundBerry project was to improve the quality and longevity of stored fruits while maintaining their nutritional value and taste. Through the AEF (Acoustic Extra Freezing) technology, a process was developed where micronano ice crystals form within the cellular structures of the fruit, minimizing tissue damage and reducing juice leakage upon thawing.
RIC Pro-Akademia’s studies have shown that fruits frozen using AEF, such as strawberries and raspberries, retain their flavor intensity, firmness, and high levels of vitamin C and antioxidants even after prolonged storage. Additionally, this method is more effective in eliminating microorganisms.
The SoundBerry project was co-financed by the European Union under the Rural Development Programme for 2014-2020, Measure M16 "Cooperation." Thanks to financial support and partnerships with the industrial sector, AEF technology can be implemented on a larger scale, offering higher quality frozen products to the Polish market.
Implementing innovative technologies in the freezing process meets the growing demands of consumers seeking healthy and high-quality food. This research enhances the competitiveness of the Polish food sector in the market.
More information about the project can be found on the project website: https://www.proakademia.eu/en/projects/138.html
The project is co-financed by the European Union under the "Cooperation" measure, covered by the Rural Development Program 2014-2020. Value of the grant: PLN 1,933,264
European Agricultural Fund for Rural Development: Europe investing in rural areas